Janitors testify over alleged firings for unionizing

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL — Six former janitors from Nova Southeastern University (NSU) testified before a federal labor judge Tuesday, claiming they were fired because they sought union representation at the school three years ago, according to the Miami Herald.

In early 2007, months after workers voted for union representation, UGL Unicco''s contract with NSU, which included housekeeping, landscaping and janitorial work, was divided among several other companies, the story stated.

In February 2007, the workers, some of whom were longtime veterans at the school, were told they had to reapply for their jobs with the new companies; none of them were rehired, the story noted.

Amparo Correa, a displaced worker, said she was told by a supervisor to stop helping her colleagues try to form a union because NSU President Ray Ferrero would "get rid of''" the company rather than have a union.

The case seeks back pay plus compounded quarterly interest for six workers in all, as well as their reinstatement and bargaining rights, the story added.